Consumers worldwide are increasingly enthusiastic about almonds, with sales of almond milk soaring by 250% in recent years. To meet the surging demand for these tree nuts, California almond growers are implementing initiatives aimed at boosting production over the next five years. According to ABC’s 2017 annual report, domestic shipments during the 2016-2017 crop year reached a record high of 676 million pounds. The U.S. remains the leading global market for California almonds, accounting for 32% of total shipments. For the first time, exports exceeded two billion pounds, with California growers shipping to over 90 countries.
The growing popularity of almond products has caught the attention of major food companies. In April, Danone acquired WhiteWave, which includes Silk Almond and So Delicious Almondmilk in its portfolio. Additionally, Kellogg purchased the parent company of RXBAR last October, a clean label producer of snack bars made with almonds, cashews, and dates.
California, known for its cool, wet winters and hot, dry summers, is one of only five regions worldwide with the ideal climate for almond cultivation. However, each almond consumes about a gallon of water, raising concerns about environmental sustainability, especially as California grapples with issues like wildfires, drought, severe flooding, and mudslides. As the demand for almond milk and related products continues to rise, the industry recognizes the necessity of adopting environmentally friendly practices to avoid alienating consumers who are increasingly mindful of product sourcing and production methods. If these concerns are not addressed, consumers may begin to reduce their consumption of almond-based products.
In response, ABC has initiated efforts to enhance farming practices and water conservation technologies. In December, they announced a $4.8 million investment in 64 independent, third-party research projects exploring innovative farming techniques, including water sustainability. Current almond farming practices are reportedly offsetting 50% of their carbon emissions, and with further advancements, ABC believes almond farming could achieve carbon neutrality or even become carbon negative. California growers are also exploring ways to repurpose almond shells and hulls for livestock feed, bedding, and electricity generation.
The almond, celebrated for its heart health benefits that manufacturers can proudly promote, seems to have a bright future ahead. However, competition from other nuts and food ingredients is intensifying, making it crucial for almond producers to remain vigilant and not become complacent with past achievements. The potential for incorporating calcium citrate malate and vitamin D3 into almond-based products could also play a role in enhancing their appeal. As the price of these ingredients fluctuates, almond producers must strategize to maintain their position in the market and meet the evolving demands of health-conscious consumers.